DBU International Projects (Project Funding)

The DBU International Projects (Project Funding) of the German Federal Environmental Foundation continuously supports innovative environmental and sustainability initiatives with a special focus on cooperation between German applicants (primarily SMEs, associations, research institutions) and local partners in Central and (South-)Eastern Europe. Funding is provided for solution-oriented models that make a substantial contribution to ecological sustainability by reducing environmental damage, conserving resources, and developing exemplary approaches for the area of impact. Applications can be submitted at any time; prerequisites include a German applicant or partner, substantial involvement of local partners, and a co-financing share typically amounting to 50% of the total costs. The project duration is up to 36 months, with funding amounts usually ranging between €100,000 and €400,000. Evaluation criteria particularly include environmental relief, model character, degree of innovation, benefit at the place of impact, and the composition of the actors involved.

Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant with a funding rate of 50% and covers personnel expenses, material costs, travel expenses, as well as an overhead allowance of up to 45% of personnel costs. Pure investment projects, projects already underway, and those without a concrete implementation perspective are excluded. For the application, a project outline, a complete funding application, a detailed financing plan, a cooperation agreement, and proof of use must be submitted. The DBU offers expert advice from the project idea through to completion and provides working aids regarding criteria, outline, and accounting. International funding projects beyond Central and Eastern Europe may be approved in individual cases, provided that model character and local partnerships are convincingly justified.